Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world, with an estimated one billion followers across the globe. One of its most iconic symbols is the number 108. This number can be found everywhere from the mala beads used in traditional Hindu prayer, to the petals of the lotus in Hindu religious artwork. Hinduism is a fascinating religion, and behind its use of the number 108 are several interesting cultural, spiritual and mathematical connections.
The number 108 is considered to be a sacred number in Hinduism, with many sources linking it to powerful spiritual symbolism. For example, in Sanskrit, some sources state that ‘108’ can be read as ‘one’ (ek), ‘zero’ (shunya), and ‘eight’ (kala), which can be interpreted to mean ‘oneness’ or ‘wholeness’. Additionally, there are 108 sacred sites in India, including four pilgrimage places – Badrinath, Puri, Rameswaram and Dwarka – and four sacred rivers – the Ganges, Yamuna, Godavari, and the Saraswati. Furthermore, the Upanishads, a set of Hindu scriptures, are believed to include 108 different important teachings.
On a more scientific level, some theories suggest that 108 might be linked to the solar system. It is thought that the sun is 108 times larger than Earth and the average distance between the Sun and the Moon is also approximately 108 times their respective diameters. Another interesting theory is that of ‘Chakras’, energy points found in the body, which are traditionally linked to the number 108. There are seven chakras associated with the body, and each is believed to have 6 “petals”, or components, giving a total of 42 aspects, which, multiplied by two, gives a total of 108.
At a practical level, the number 108 is closely connected in Hinduism to mala beads, which are commonly used in traditional prayer rituals. Mala beads form part of the japa mala, a set of prayer beads made up of 108 beads, one ‘head bead’, and one ‘tail bead’. Malas are traditionally held in the left hand and moved with any given mantra or prayer. The idea is to “touch” each bead while reciting a mantra on each bead, thus completing a total cycle of 108 repetitions.
It is clear to see why number 108 has such significance in Hindu culture. With its intriguing connections to symbolic concepts and religious and scientific theories, the number 108 continues to captivate generations of Hindu believers-at once being both deeply spiritual and incredibly practical.
Relationships With the Divine
The use of 108 in Hinduism is closely connected to the notion of seeking union between the human and divine. Traditional texts suggest that man is made up of three elements: physical, vital and mental. It is believed that through rigorous practice of mantras, usually for hours on end, an individual can become one with the divine and transcend the material world. This seeking of a higher awareness and oneness is often known as ‘Nirvana’. As part of this practice, mala beads are used to help keep track of the mantras and promote focus. Furthermore, it is thought that using the mala beads embedded with the number 108 can help connect an individual with a spiritual energy that is larger than the sum of our individual parts.
At core, then, the number 108 is closely intertwined with the idea of union between the human and divine. It is a reminder to devotees to pursue this connection through prayer and meditation, and that ultimately, by doing so, they can discover a state of true wholeness and understanding.
Hindu Numerology
Hinduism also contains a month-long system of numerology, in which numbers are assigned to days of the week and months of the year. This system makes it easy for devotees to keep track of events, holidays and festivals. While this system does bear its own set of complexities, its use of the number 108 manages to appear time and time again. For example, the number 108 is the numerical equivalent of ‘Moksha’, or spiritual salvation, in the Hindu numerological system.
Another connection with numerology is the use of ‘abhimantrit mantras’, which are special mantras that are believed to be endowed with power from the divine. These mantras are said to be activated when recited 108 times. For example, a devotee wishing to experience inner peace and emotional balance might recite a special mantra 108 times to become connected to its true spiritual power.
Thus, it is clear to see how the number 108 has a deep-rooted connection to the numerology system used in Hinduism. From providing followers with a method of telling the date and time of the year, to invoking the power of mantras and connecting us to the divine, the number 108 is a profound reminder that there is power in numbers.
Conclusion
From its symbolic representation of oneness to its spiritual and practical applications, it is clear to see why the number 108 has such strong significance in Hinduism. Whether used in the repetition of mantras, in the Hindu numerological system or in the practical use of mala beads, this number serves as a reminder that with faith, unity and clarity, we can reach a higher state of understanding.
